Patrick Oconnell
The phrase say cheese has become a ubiquitous prompt when taking photographs, but its origins are rooted in a clever combination of linguistics and facial mechanics. The word cheese encourages people to form a wide smile by stretching the lips and exposing the teeth, which is visually appealing in photos. This practice dates back to the early 20th century, with one popular theory suggesting it gained traction in the 1940s when American photographer Will Hay advised subjects to say cheeeese to achieve a natural, toothy grin. The long e sound in cheese naturally lifts the cheeks and creates a genuine-looking smile, making it a simple yet effective trick that has endured for generations. Today, it remains a go-to phrase for photographers worldwide, ensuring subjects look their best in front of the camera.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Origin | The phrase "say cheese" when taking a picture likely originated in the early 20th century. It is believed to have been popularized by photographer Jay Norwood Darling, who suggested the word "cheese" because the long "e" sound causes the cheeks to lift and the mouth to form a smile. |
| Purpose | To help subjects smile naturally and align their teeth, creating a more pleasant and visually appealing photograph. |
| Phonetics | The word "cheese" contains a long "e" sound (/iː/), which naturally lifts the cheeks and stretches the mouth into a smile. |
| Cultural Spread | The phrase became widely adopted in English-speaking countries and has since spread globally, often translated or adapted into other languages (e.g., "whiskey" in some German-speaking regions). |
| Alternatives | Other words or phrases are sometimes used in different cultures, such as "kimchi" in Korea or "ouistiti" in France, which serve the same purpose of eliciting a smile. |
| Psychological Effect | Saying "cheese" helps reduce awkwardness or self-consciousness, making subjects feel more at ease during photo-taking. |
| Modern Usage | Still widely used in photography, especially for group photos, portraits, and casual snapshots, despite the rise of selfie culture and spontaneous photography. |
| Scientific Basis | The facial expression formed by saying "cheese" activates the zygomatic major muscle, which is associated with genuine smiling, though it is often considered a posed smile. |
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What You'll Learn
- Historical Origins: Phrase linked to 19th-century photographer's advice for subjects to say cheese for a natural smile
- Phonetic Effect: Cheese shapes lips into a smile, making it ideal for capturing happy expressions in photos
- Cultural Spread: The phrase gained global popularity through English-language media and photography practices
- Alternatives Worldwide: Other cultures use words like whiskey or kimchi to achieve similar smiling effects
- Modern Usage: Despite digital advancements, say cheese remains a universal cue for posing in photos
Historical Origins: Phrase linked to 19th-century photographer's advice for subjects to say cheese for a natural smile
The phrase "say cheese" has become an almost universal cue for smiling in front of the camera, but its origins are rooted in a specific piece of advice from 19th-century photographers. During this era, portrait photography was a novel and often uncomfortable experience for subjects, who were required to sit still for extended periods. To capture a natural smile, photographers needed a simple, effective trick. Enter the word "cheese," chosen for its ability to stretch the mouth into a broad, toothy grin. This technique was not just a whimsical suggestion but a practical solution to the technical limitations of early photography, where long exposure times demanded sustained expressions.
Analyzing the effectiveness of "cheese" reveals its linguistic and physiological advantages. The long "e" sound in "cheese" naturally lifts the corners of the mouth, mimicking the shape of a genuine smile. This is why it outperformed other words like "plum" or "egg," which lack the same mouth-stretching effect. Photographers of the time likely experimented with various words before settling on "cheese" as the most reliable option. Its simplicity and immediate results made it a staple in studios, where efficiency and consistency were paramount. This early adoption set the stage for its enduring popularity.
To replicate this technique today, consider the context in which it was originally used. For photographers working with children or camera-shy subjects, saying "cheese" can still be an effective way to elicit a quick smile. However, it’s important to balance tradition with creativity. While "cheese" works well for candid shots, it may produce overly staged expressions in more formal settings. Pairing the phrase with lighthearted conversation or encouraging subjects to think of something genuinely amusing can enhance its effectiveness, blending historical wisdom with modern adaptability.
Comparing the 19th-century use of "cheese" to contemporary photography practices highlights both continuity and evolution. While modern cameras allow for instantaneous captures, eliminating the need for prolonged smiles, the phrase persists as a cultural artifact. Its longevity speaks to its simplicity and the human desire for tradition. Yet, today’s photographers often experiment with alternative prompts, such as "say pizza" or "think of something happy," to achieve more authentic expressions. This shift underscores the balance between honoring historical origins and embracing innovation in the pursuit of the perfect shot.
In conclusion, the phrase "say cheese" is more than just a quirky tradition—it’s a testament to the ingenuity of early photographers who sought to overcome the limitations of their craft. By understanding its historical context and practical benefits, both photographers and subjects can appreciate its enduring appeal. Whether used as a nod to the past or as a starting point for creative experimentation, "cheese" remains a powerful tool in the photographer’s arsenal, bridging centuries of innovation with a single, simple word.
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Phonetic Effect: Cheese shapes lips into a smile, making it ideal for capturing happy expressions in photos
The word "cheese" has a unique phonetic quality that naturally shapes the lips into a smile. When you say it, the long "ee" sound stretches the corners of your mouth upward, while the final "s" sound keeps the smile in place. This simple linguistic quirk transforms a mundane word into a tool for capturing genuine, happy expressions in photographs.
To leverage this effect, photographers often instruct subjects to say "cheese" just before snapping the picture. The timing is crucial: the word should be spoken as the shutter clicks to ensure the smile peaks at the right moment. For best results, encourage subjects to exaggerate the "ee" sound slightly, as this enhances the upward pull of the lips. This technique is particularly effective with children and adults who struggle with natural smiles on command.
Comparing "cheese" to other words reveals its superiority in smile-inducing phonetics. For instance, "smile" lacks the lip-stretching vowel sound, while "whiskey" or "money" may evoke smiles but don’t universally translate across cultures. "Cheese," however, is short, universally recognized, and phonetically optimized for the task. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it a go-to phrase in photography, even in non-English-speaking regions.
Practical tip: If you’re taking a group photo, instruct everyone to say "cheese" simultaneously. This not only synchronizes smiles but also creates a sense of unity and fun. For solo shots, experiment with saying the word softly versus loudly—a louder pronunciation often yields a more pronounced smile. Remember, the goal isn’t just to say the word but to use its phonetic properties to craft a natural, joyful expression.
In conclusion, the phonetic effect of "cheese" is a subtle yet powerful tool in photography. By understanding how its sounds shape facial muscles, photographers can reliably capture authentic smiles. Whether you’re a professional or a casual snapshot taker, mastering this technique ensures your subjects look genuinely happy—one "cheese" at a time.
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Cultural Spread: The phrase gained global popularity through English-language media and photography practices
The phrase "say cheese" has transcended its English origins to become a global cue for smiling in front of the camera. This cultural spread is largely attributable to the dominance of English-language media in the 20th century. Hollywood films, American television shows, and international news outlets frequently depicted photographers instructing subjects to "say cheese," embedding the phrase into the collective consciousness of audiences worldwide. As viewers from non-English-speaking countries encountered this phrase repeatedly, it became a recognizable and adopted practice, even if the literal meaning of "cheese" was lost in translation.
Consider the mechanics of this spread: English-language media acts as a cultural exporter, disseminating not just stories but also behaviors and phrases. For instance, a Japanese viewer watching an American sitcom might not understand why "cheese" is said, but the visual context—a bright smile—makes the phrase’s purpose clear. Over time, local photographers in non-English-speaking regions began adopting the phrase, not because of its linguistic meaning, but because of its universal association with smiling. This demonstrates how visual media can communicate cultural practices more effectively than language alone.
The role of photography practices further accelerated this global adoption. With the rise of affordable cameras in the mid-20th century and the subsequent digital photography boom, amateur photographers sought simple ways to elicit natural smiles. The phrase "say cheese" became a practical tool, easily replicated across cultures. Its brevity and rhythmic quality made it memorable, while its connection to English—a lingua franca in many professional and social contexts—added a layer of perceived sophistication. This combination of practicality and cultural cachet ensured its widespread use.
However, the phrase’s global popularity is not without nuance. In some cultures, the literal translation of "cheese" has led to adaptations. For example, in Mandarin, photographers might say "qīzi" (茄子, meaning "eggplant"), while in Korean, "kimchi" is used. These variations highlight how the core idea—a word that prompts a smile—has been localized while retaining its function. Yet, the original English phrase remains dominant, a testament to the enduring influence of English-language media and the global photography industry.
To leverage this cultural spread effectively, photographers and educators can take a two-pronged approach. First, acknowledge the phrase’s universal recognition by using it as a starting point, especially in multicultural settings. Second, be open to local adaptations that resonate more deeply with specific audiences. For instance, when working with children aged 5–12, pairing "say cheese" with a visual cue—like holding up a toy or making a funny face—can enhance engagement. This blend of global familiarity and local relevance ensures the phrase remains a powerful tool in the photographer’s arsenal.
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Alternatives Worldwide: Other cultures use words like whiskey or kimchi to achieve similar smiling effects
The tradition of saying "cheese" to coax a smile for the camera is deeply ingrained in English-speaking cultures, but it’s far from universal. Across the globe, photographers and subjects alike have devised their own linguistic tricks to achieve that perfect, natural grin. These alternatives often reflect cultural nuances, phonetic quirks, or even local humor, proving that the art of capturing a smile transcends language barriers.
In France, for instance, the go-to phrase is *"ouistiti,"* which translates to “marmoset”—a small, playful monkey. The word’s high-pitched, cheerful sound naturally lifts the corners of the mouth, creating a genuine smile. Similarly, in Spain, photographers often say *"patata"* (potato), a word that, when pronounced, forces the lips to form a rounded, smile-like shape. These examples highlight how the choice of word is less about meaning and more about the physical effect it produces.
In Asia, the approach varies widely. In Korea, *"kimchi"*—the name of the country’s iconic fermented vegetable dish—is a popular prompt. The word’s hard “k” sound and the way it stretches the cheeks mimic the act of smiling. In Japan, photographers might use *"shiso"* (a herb) or *"satsuma"* (a type of orange), both of which require a similar mouth shape. These choices are deeply rooted in local culture, making them instantly recognizable and effective for their respective audiences.
For adults, especially in formal settings, some cultures opt for more subdued alternatives. In Germany, *"Käse"* (cheese) is sometimes used, but *"Whiskey"* is another common choice, particularly among older generations. The word’s long, drawn-out vowel sound encourages a relaxed, natural smile without the silliness of more playful phrases. This demonstrates how age and context can influence the selection of smile-inducing words.
Practical tip: When traveling or photographing people from different cultures, research or ask about their preferred smile prompt. Not only does this show cultural sensitivity, but it also increases the likelihood of capturing authentic, joyful expressions. For instance, if you’re photographing a Korean family, try saying *"kimchi"* instead of *"cheese"*—they’ll appreciate the effort, and the results will speak for themselves.
Ultimately, these global alternatives to “cheese” remind us that the goal is universal—to capture a genuine smile—but the methods are as diverse as the cultures themselves. Whether it’s a monkey, a potato, or a fermented vegetable, the right word can turn a stiff pose into a moment of shared humanity.
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Modern Usage: Despite digital advancements, say cheese remains a universal cue for posing in photos
The phrase "say cheese" has endured as a universal cue for posing in photos, even as digital technology has transformed how we capture and share images. Its longevity can be attributed to its simplicity and effectiveness: the word "cheese" naturally lifts the cheeks and stretches the lips into a smile, creating a flattering expression. This physical response is immediate and requires no additional instruction, making it ideal for photographers working with subjects of all ages and languages. In a world where smartphones have made everyone a potential photographer, this brevity is invaluable, ensuring a quick and consistent result.
Consider the modern photo-taking experience: a group gathers, a camera is raised, and the phrase "say cheese" is uttered almost reflexively. Despite the rise of selfie culture, where individuals often pose without external direction, this cue remains a go-to for group shots, family portraits, and professional settings. Its persistence highlights a fascinating contrast between technological innovation and linguistic tradition. While filters, editing tools, and AI enhancements dominate the digital landscape, this analog prompt continues to hold its ground, proving that some techniques transcend the tools we use.
From a psychological perspective, "say cheese" serves as a social signal that transitions individuals from their natural state to a pose-ready mode. It acts as a mini-ritual, reducing awkwardness and creating a shared moment of anticipation. This is particularly useful in formal or high-pressure situations, such as weddings or corporate events, where spontaneity might otherwise lead to unflattering expressions. By relying on this familiar phrase, photographers can maintain control over the moment while ensuring subjects feel included and prepared.
Interestingly, the phrase’s universality extends beyond English-speaking cultures, often adopted or adapted in other languages. For instance, in French, "dites ouistiti" (say ooh-ee-stee-tee) mimics the lip-stretching effect, while in Spanish, "di patata" (say pah-tah-tah) serves a similar purpose. This global adoption underscores its practicality and cross-cultural appeal, making it a rare example of a linguistic trend that has not been replaced by digital alternatives. Even as voice-activated cameras and gesture controls emerge, "say cheese" remains a reliable, human-centered solution.
In practical terms, leveraging this phrase can enhance photo outcomes, especially in time-sensitive scenarios. For photographers working with children or large groups, it provides a quick way to align smiles and attention. Pairing it with other techniques, such as encouraging natural laughter or using props, can further elevate the result. Ultimately, the enduring use of "say cheese" reminds us that sometimes the simplest tools are the most effective, even—or especially—in an era of digital complexity.
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Frequently asked questions
Saying "cheese" helps people smile naturally by lifting the cheeks and showing teeth, creating a pleasant expression in photos.
The practice likely originated in the early 20th century, as photographers encouraged subjects to say "cheese" to achieve a bright, toothy smile.
Yes, in some cultures, words like "whiskey" (in Germany) or "kimchi" (in Korea) are used to achieve a similar smiling effect for photos.
